What Is Bronchoscopy?
A thin flexible camera — the bronchoscope — is passed through the nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the airways. It allows the doctor to see inside the lungs directly, take tissue samples, and perform treatments.
Diagnostic bronchoscopy — finding the problem
- Unexplained lung mass or shadow on CT
- Suspected lung cancer — biopsy of the lesion
- Persistent cough with no diagnosis
- Suspected TB or unusual lung infection
- Recurrent pneumonia in same area of lung
- Coughing blood (haemoptysis) — find the source
- Interstitial lung disease — airway sampling
Therapeutic bronchoscopy — treating the problem
- Remove foreign bodies from the airway
- Clear mucus plugs blocking airways
- Laser or electrocautery for airway tumours
- Cryotherapy — freeze and remove tissue
- Balloon dilation for airway narrowing
- Apply medications directly to the airway
- Collect secretions for infection testing
What to Expect — Step by Step
Most bronchoscopies are completed within 30–45 minutes. You go home the same day.
Before the procedure
Fast for 6 hours. Arrange someone to drive you home. No blood thinners if advised by your doctor.
Preparation
Local anaesthetic spray to the throat. Light sedation via IV. You are awake but comfortable and drowsy.
During
Bronchoscope passed through nose or mouth. Camera views all airways. Samples taken if needed. 20–40 minutes.
After
Monitored for 1–2 hours. Mild throat soreness is normal. Results discussed same day or within 5–7 days.
Important: You cannot drive after the procedure due to sedation. Bring a family member or arrange a cab.
Why Choose Dr. Kunal Waghray for Bronchoscopy
1,000+ procedures performed
Approximately 30 bronchoscopies per month since 2018.
DM Pulmonology — Amrita Institute
Super-specialty training at one of India's top institutions. Full bronchoscopy suite experience.
Diagnostic + therapeutic in one session
Identify the problem and treat it where possible in a single procedure.
Explains before you decide
Every patient receives a clear explanation of what will be done, why, and what to expect before proceeding.
EBUS available
If lymph node sampling is needed, EBUS can be performed in the same session — no separate procedure.
Same-week scheduling
Most patients are booked within 5–7 days of the initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bronchoscopy painful?
No. Local anaesthetic is applied to the throat and IV sedation is given. You may feel mild pressure or the urge to cough during the procedure, but it is not painful.
How long does bronchoscopy take?
The procedure itself takes 20–40 minutes. You will be at the clinic for approximately 2–3 hours including preparation and recovery.
Do I need to be admitted to hospital?
Most bronchoscopies at Respire are day procedures — you go home the same day. Some therapeutic procedures may require an overnight stay.
When will I get the biopsy results?
Biopsy results from the lab typically take 5–7 working days. Dr. Kunal will call you to discuss findings.
Is bronchoscopy safe?
Yes. Bronchoscopy is a well-established, low-risk procedure. Minor side effects (temporary sore throat, mild cough) are common. Serious complications are rare.
Can I eat before bronchoscopy?
No — you must fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure. This is essential for safe sedation. Water is also restricted for 2 hours before.
What is the cost of bronchoscopy in Hyderabad?
The cost at Respire is approximately ₹15,000–₹20,000 depending on the type of bronchoscopy and whether biopsy is taken. Please call us for a precise quote.
Referred for a bronchoscopy?
Most patients are scheduled within the same week. Bring your CT scan or referral letter to your first consultation.